How Women Are Leading the Largest Wealth Transfer in History

How Women Are Leading the Largest Wealth Transfer in History

by | Jan 18, 2025 | Inclusion in the News

As baby boomers age, women are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the largest wealth transfer in history. With women living longer than men, many are inheriting wealth and becoming key decision-makers for their family finances.

Women are taking a proactive approach to managing wealth, often switching financial advisers and prioritizing long-term goals like healthcare, philanthropy, and legacy planning. This marks a stark shift from earlier generations, when many women were excluded from financial decisions. Today, they control $8 trillion in liquid assets, a figure projected to grow significantly as baby boomers transfer $82 trillion in wealth.

These transitions aren’t always seamless, as women often face family disputes over inheritance. Experts encourage women to engage in financial planning early to ease these challenges. Additionally, women are making a meaningful impact by directing wealth to charitable causes, prioritizing longevity, and redefining how money supports future generations.

This trend reflects women’s growing influence in finance, aligning with the mission of empowering diverse perspectives in the financial industry.

Source: Wall Street Journal

https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/baby-boomer-wealth-transfer-women-5776d3a5

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Apple Champions DEI as Amazon Scales Back

Apple Champions DEI as Amazon Scales Back

by | Jan 14, 2025 | Inclusion in the News

As 2025 begins, corporate approaches to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are diverging sharply. Companies like Amazon, Meta, and McDonald’s are scaling back DEI initiatives, citing legal challenges and shifting cultural narratives. These changes send a clear message that inclusivity is no longer a priority, potentially alienating employees, recruits, and customers who value equitable workplaces.

In contrast, Apple is doubling down on its DEI commitments, signaling authenticity and a purpose-driven culture. Research shows such efforts appeal strongly to Gen Z and Millennial talent, who prioritize inclusive environments when choosing employers.

The next few years will reveal how these contrasting strategies impact hiring, retention, and overall success, with Apple betting on inclusivity to attract talent and strengthen its brand.

Source: Forbes

https://www.forbes.com/sites/drnancydoyle/2025/01/14/the-defence-of-dei-apple-versus-amazon/

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Harvard Women in Business 2024 BOLD Conference Q4 Features RTSWS & HarbourVest

Harvard Women in Business 2024 BOLD Conference Q4 Features RTSWS & HarbourVest

by | Jan 3, 2025 | Events

During January’s National Mentoring Month in the US, we are delighted to share insights from the Harvard Women in Business BOLD event, where RTSWS CEO, Ashley Leftwich, and Katherine McCord, VP of Client Reporting and Communications at HarbourVest, were featured in a fireside chat. The discussion was moderated by Phoebe Tian, a dedicated member of the BOLD Committee.

Ashley discussed the core mission of Rock The Street, Wall Street, focusing on ways to address barriers that prevent some young women from pursuing careers in finance. By integrating financial and investment fundamentals into high school cohorts, RTSWS empowers young women to navigate from the classroom to university, internships and significant roles in the financial markets, increasing the representation of women in finance.

Katherine shared insights into her role at HarbourVest, where she oversees client reporting and communications, and leads the firm’s ESG and Community Engagement initiatives. She highlighted the synergy between HarbourVest’s goals and the mission of RTSWS, particularly in empowering young women through enhanced financial literacy and career opportunities.

A standout moment from the event was the discussion of a success story from an RTSWS Alumna who credited the program with solidifying her interest in and pursuit of the financial industry, demonstrating the transformative impact of RTSWS’s mentorship and educational programs.

The event also delved into the evolving landscape of women in finance, the critical role of mentorship, and the importance of diversity for better decision-making in the industry. Speakers discussed the challenges they’ve faced as female leaders and how they’ve navigated these challenges to foster inclusive, supportive environments for women.

As we continue to drive change and empower the next generation, events like the Harvard’s BOLD conference serve as crucial platforms for sharing strategies, celebrating successes, growing engagement in our Alumnae & Career Center. Together with volunteers, mentors and team, we are inspiring and inspired by our RTSWS Students & Alumnae – thank you!